UH Hilo to host international conference on Bush presidency

The University of Hawaiʻi at Hilo will host an international conference to evaluate the recently concluded presidency of the nation‘s 43rd president, George W. Bush. The conference will be held July 29-31, 2009 at various locations on campus.

A number of internationally renown presidential scholars will discuss a wide range of topics, including: Presidential Power; War Powers; Executive Appointments; Law; Judicial Relations; Media and the overall Bush Legacy.

"Whether you supported or opposed President Bush, there‘s no question that his tenure in office brought about vast changes in the institution of the presidency," said Dr. Todd Belt, associate professor of political science and conference organizer. "This gathering will provide evaluations on numerous aspects of his presidency and their impact from some of the world‘s most knowledgeable experts."

Highlighting the conference will be the keynote address by Loyola Chair of Leadership, Dr. Michael A. Genovese, professor of political science and director of the Institute for Leadership Studies at Loyola University. Genovese will deliver an address entitled, "Sisyphus and Leviathan Meet Goldilocks and the Three Presidencies," which contrasts the constraints of the "routine" nature of much of what the president does with the expansion of presidential power during times of crisis.

Sessions will run from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. July 29, and from 2:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. July 30 and 31. Registration is $195.00 and includes entry into all plenary sessions, panels, the keynote address and meals on opening day. A special $50 Kamaʻaina discount will be offered to the first 50 Hawaiʻi residents to register prior to the July 15 deadline.

To register or for information on registration, contact the UH Hilo Conference Center at (808) 974-7555 or email uhhconferencecenter@gmail.com. For program-related information, contact Belt at (808) 974-7375 or email tbelt@hawaii.edu.